KARACHI: The Customs Court approved interim charge sheet against Shakeel Ahmed Muhammad Ain, Muhammad Abdullah son of Muhammad Akbar director M/s Steel Vision, directors/ proprietors of M/s Cosmos Trading Development and others, who were nominated in a case of tax evasion.
On 11 September 2020, investigation officer submitted that EPZA intelligence staff and security staff intercepted a used black Toyota Hilux Vigo double cabin vehicle bearing registration no: KR-7676 while trying to illegally remove the non-duty paid iron and steel sheet 800 pcs, approx. 500 kgs which was lying on top of the roof and rear loading space of said vehicle from KEPZ exit gate.
He further submitted that the said vehicle along with afore mentioned goods were however handed over to the customs preventive staff at gate of KEPZ after completing the necessary formalities, however, neither the incident report submitted by the customs preventive staff posted at KEPZ nor the declaration report from shift inspector (gate) KEPZ mentioned names of the persons involved in the aforesaid illegal act and boarding the detained vehicle.
He said that during the investigation, it is established beyond any iota of doubt that M/s Steel Vision, KEPZ in connivance with M/s Cosmos Trading Development, a customs clearing agent have violated the provisions of section 19, 178 and 192 of the customs act, 1969 read with rules 226, 228, 234 and 235 of SRO 450(1) 2001 dated June 18, 2001 and others relevant sections and laws.
He argued that further investigation is underway as CCTV footage record of movement of the detained vehicle from entry and exit gates is still awaited to ascertain the frequency and intensity of the illegal removal of dutiable goods by way of theft. After the hearing, court approved charge sheet and fixed the case for regular hearing.
